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Sash Window RepairSash windows can go out of balance and crack. Pam scours the web for salvaged Wavy glass, wavy glass, and is always looking for scraps of sash weights made of metal. She then hunts for replacements in the form of nuts or washers to ensure that her window is balanced.Pam puts each pane in with a rope of glazing compound she works into the rabbet groove, also known as a pocket, that is around the opening. This helps cut drafts and prevent costly heat loss.Sashes that stick SashesIt's a nightmare when double-hung windows are stuck. They'll rattle during an icy storm and you'll lose your view. On the other hand, a window that's too loose will allow external noise and air in, and your energy bills can increase. This is neither ideal, but both could be fixed with the right tools and a little perseverance.A common issue with old windows with weighted sash is that paint could accumulate in the channels they slide over, causing them blockage. The majority of these issues can be solved by cleaning and oiling the tracks.Start by removing the caulking between the window stop (the one inside) and the window frame. Then scrape off any accumulated paint. Make sure to make use of a sharp blade and set up plastic sheets and a vacuum cleaner right below to keep any paint dust and chips.Then, wipe the tracks using a dry cloth, and apply a silicone-based lubricant for more smooth gliding. You can purchase this in many home improvement stores or on the internet. You can test it by moving the sash upwards or downwards.If it continues to stop, the sash cable may be defective. Examine the sash cord to determine if the cord is catching or hanging up in the sash, or has snapped completely. If this is the case, you'll need to reconnect the window.A pin that holds the rail in place could have fallen out. It can be difficult to fix and you'll need to call in a professional most of the time.Use a wood hardener in the event that the wood is swollen and warped, but there's not a pin. This is a quick drying liquid that can help restore damaged wood, so you'll be able to fix your window sash without needing to remove it completely. After you've used it you'll be able pry the two sashes apart by placing a piece of wood on the bottom corner where they meet and tapping it lightly with a hammer.DraughtsDraughts can cause problems when you have an old sash window, especially during the winter. They are usually caused by rotten wood, cracked putty, or worn cords for sash. This can allow cold air to seep around the window, making it more difficult to heat your home. You can reduce the risk of drafts by filling in gaps with expanding foam or by using draught-proof strips that are that are available in most hardware stores. These are efficient, but they'll need to be replaced periodically because the foam expands and gets worn away with wear and use.A alternative that is more durable is Gapseal, which is a rubbery spongy seal that you cut to the desired size and then push into the gaps between the window frames of your sash. It can be used alone or with adhesive strips at the top and bottom. This option is fairly expensive and will need to be reapplied throughout the duration of your window's lifespan, but it is a long-term solution and is easy to take off if you want to open the window.Another popular DIY method of draughtproofing is to use cling wrap that is rolled up and put into every gap around your window. This is a great draught-stopper however, it could also block the sash's movement and possibly cause fire. Additionally the sash will have to be removed for you to re-open the door and the cling film has to be applied each time you close the sash.As part of a complete refurbishment it is possible to have your window draught-proofed. This could include the replacement of sash cords, parting beads, staff beads, lubrication of pulley wheels and rebalancing of the weights, as well as painting or staining the frames and sashes. This will bring the sash back to its original function and increase its energy efficiency and correct any minor imperfections in the timber. It is less disruptive than removing windows and will reduce draughts, increase the thermal performance, and drastically reduce the cost.DecayIf your windows with sash have suffered decay or damage, the good news is that they aren't necessarily unfixable. The frames of these windows are generally constructed of high-quality wood. If you can restore them properly they can be rehabilitated to give you the best performance for many more years. Regular inspections are key, as is ensuring the wood is properly ventilated. This will stop the accumulation of moisture that can lead to wood decay.The majority of issues with sash window are easily visible, but others are more difficult to spot. Wood decay is difficult to treat, since the fungus consumes the wood. It is possible to fix damaged sections of timber however, the best method to avoid further rot is to make sure the timber is dry.First, clean any paint from the hardware. The bottom rail and the connecting rail might need to be removed from the frame (depending on the location of your sash). The "pocket covers", which are small pieces of wood placed on the frame's side that permit access to the weights should be removed. You may need to use a sharp knife to remove them if they're fixed or painted. After the pockets have been removed, you can start slicing out any wood decay and apply a high-quality, water-resistant filler. After the filler has dried, a primer coat should be applied to stop further decay.It is a smart idea to check inside the window for sashweights to make sure they are in balance. They should not be in the wrong alignment, or pulling one side harder than the other. The sash could be thrown off its track if they are not properly balanced. This could cause the frame to fall or be damaged. The sash's weights can be replaced with new ones or a new balance mechanism could be fitted that will stop the sashes from bouncing to the opposite side of the window frame.Poor SecurityOver time, sash windows can become exposed to the elements and susceptible to damage from weather and general wear. This can cause decay of timber, and requires replacement. Water marks under the window or a softened frame could be a sign of decaying wood. It is crucial to speak with a professional to assess the situation and determine if any sash window repairs are necessary.Similarly, over time the rails at the bottom may become damaged. Water marks on the sill or a window which is soft to the touch could be an indication of this. A professional will be required to assess the situation, and recommend any necessary repair of sash windows or replacement.Triple and double glazed sash windows do an amazing job at keeping noise pollution out of your home, so it can be a real cause for concern when they start to let it in. If this happens the structural integrity of the window could be at stake and the sash windows will need to be replaced.A common issue with repairing sashes is when the sash gets stuck in the frame. It could be due to an untidy cord or a problem with sash rattles. If the problem is related to the sash the ratchets, some gentle persuasion is often the best solution.Removal of the sash from the frame and cleaning the tracks of dirt or dust will often assist in resolving this issue. After the tracks have been cleaned take off any security fittings that might be present, and then removal of the sash cords as well as chains will allow the sash be removed. The staff bead can be sealed using a draught-proof seal that will reduce the risk of draughts. This will also improve the paint finish. The gap between the box and sash can then be filled with decorators caulk to enhance sash operation and reduce the risk of draughts.